Bad Badger

Septimus, a badger, wasn’t very sure he was truly a badger. He didn’t live in the woods. He lived in a cottage by the sea. And he didn’t have stripes on his face. He had spots. When a seagull lands on the porch rail one day, Septimus realizes he has been lonely. He doesn’t have any friends. They meet each Wednesday on the porch, and Septimus is thrilled with his new friendship. He names the bird Gully, and their communication is difficult. As suddenly as Gully appears, Gully is gone. Septimus doesn’t even know where to begin to find his friend.

Author Maryrose Wood has written such a sweet story that is filled with imagination, humor, and enchantment and touches on themes of friendship and forgiveness. The writing is simply lovely, and the characters are perfectly charming. Although the story is fantastical, readers will buy in completely as they are drawn in by great storytelling. Spot art by Giulia Ghigini complements the story nicely and will help to keep young or reluctant readers engaged. This book deserves readership beyond a middle-grade audience. Don’t miss it.